Heavy rainfall and river flooding affecting thousands of people. This was the scenario of the EU Civil Protection exercise "EURO Modex" which took place on 22-25 October 2015 in Romania. It was hosted by the Romanian General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations and funded by the European Commission. Teams from Austria, Bulgaria and Czech Republic and support team from Germany took part in a four-day long exercise. Video by EU RO MODEX exercise

The exercise comprised different flood response techniques including water rescue by boats, water pumping and flood containment. The aim of the exercise was to test the coordination mechanisms for emergency and rescue response and decision-making procedures in case a similar accident would actually happen in Europe. Teams learned to work together and understand better the structures of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. Preparedness to disasters is crucial – it can save lives.

The European Commission organises and funds a number of civil protection exercises every year. Alongside full-scale exercises, modules and table-top exercises can also be conducted.